In February 2018 the WNC Agricultural Options program awarded 43 farm businesses grants totaling $229,000 to assist in farm diversification and expansion.

Nine of the farm business received $3,000, one received $4,000 and 33 received $6,000. The N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission is the exclusive financial supporter of WNC AgOptions, which aims to build sustainable farming communities in the mountain region by providing resources directly to farmers.